Taos Real Estate Septic Regulations

Posted by Jim Kimmons, Broker/Owner • December 30, 2007 • Printer-friendly

Septic systems comprise the vast majority of waste disposal mechanisms in the Taos area. In the past, regulations and lack of oversight has caused problems with some ground water. In 2006, a new statewide septic regulation was passed, and is being stringently enforced. Property cannot be transferred without a valid septic permit on file at the Environmental Division in Taos.

If you are buying any property with a septic system in place, the following procedures are followed during the purchase process:

A septic inspection is ordered by the Seller.
Septic system is pumped and inspected.
If it passes, a valid permit is issued and all is well.
If the system does not pass, problems must be corrected within 15 days of notice.
Buyer or Seller might pay for this, as it is a negotiated contract item.

You should know that many existing simple septic systems with leach fields do not comply with the new regulations due to the lot size. 3/4 acre size is required for a lot to allow a normal leach field. That 3/4 acres must be net of easements and roadways. If the current system does not qualify, the state can require the installation of special systems that can carry costs two to three times higher than a normal system with a leach field.